Erath Winery Achieves B Corp Certification

Erath Winery, a foundational brand in the Oregon wine industry, has announced its achievement of B Corporation (B Corp) certification. The designation marks a significant milestone in the winery's corporate social responsibility (CSR) journey, placing it among a select group of fewer than 100 wineries worldwide to hold this rigorous credential.

The certification formalises Erath's long-standing operational commitments to verified social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. It signals to the trade and consumers alike that the winery is legally required to balance profit with purpose.

Validating the 'Oregon' Brand

Founded in 1968 by Dick Erath in the Dundee Hills, Erath played a pivotal role in establishing Oregon’s global reputation for Pinot Noir. This new certification reinforces that legacy by aligning the brand with the modern demand for ethical production—a core tenet of the Oregon wine identity.

Amy Prosenjak, President & CEO of A to Z Wineworks LLC (which represents Erath, A to Z, and REX HILL), highlighted the shift towards value-based business models.

"We have always believed that great wine should do more than delight the senses – it can be a driver for change in the world around us," Prosenjak stated. "With our B Corp certification, we are now celebrating and honoring that belief amongst like-minded companies."

LIVE Certification and Beyond

The B Corp status complements Erath’s existing agricultural certifications. Both of the winery’s estate vineyards, Willakia and Knight's Gambit, are LIVE Certified. This third-party certification specifically verifies sustainable farming practices that support biodiversity and soil health in the Pacific Northwest.

By layering B Corp certification on top of LIVE, Erath validates its operations beyond the vineyard, covering governance, worker welfare, and community impact.

Social Responsibility Initiatives

Erath’s assessment score was bolstered by its extensive community engagement programs, which include:

Labour Welfare: A founding supporter of ¡Salud! since 1991, an initiative providing healthcare to vineyard workers and their families.

Industry Inclusion: Sponsorships of Women in Wine to champion diversity within the sector.

Environmental Action: A partnership with One Tree Planted during Oregon Wine Month to support reforestation efforts.

Leah Adint, Head Winemaker at Erath, noted that the certification is integral to the product quality itself. "Erath strives to continue stewarding the land and community that has supported its passion and pioneering spirit for Pinot Noir—connection, craftsmanship, and intention."

For retailers and distributors, Erath’s B Corp status provides a verified "sustainable" selling point in the premium Pinot Noir category, appealing to the growing segment of consumers who scrutinise the ethical footprint of their wine purchases.